Wireless enabled storage system

ABSTRACT

A storage system includes a protective housing member configured to mate with a handheld electronic device. The protective housing member includes at least one accessory station. The accessory station is configured to form between a surface of the protective housing member and a surface of at least one accessory item of the handheld electronic device. The protective housing member includes at least s wireless transmitter and/or an IC chip. The wireless transmitter is configured to facilitate a wireless connection between wireless components of the handheld electronic device and the protective housing member.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/180,019 filed Jun. 11, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,225,639, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/174,667 filedJun. 12, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

U.S. application Ser. No. 15/180,019 filed Jun. 11, 2016, now U.S. Pat.No. 10,225,639 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.14/740,179 filed Jun. 15, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,392,349, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/012,334 filedJun. 14, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

U.S. application Ser. No. 14/740,179 filed Jun. 15, 2015, now U.S. Pat.No. 9,392,349, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.14/711,735 filed May 13, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,313,905, which is acontinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/503,467 filed Oct. 1, 2014,now U.S. Pat. No. 9,065,921, which is a continuation of U.S. applicationSer. No. 14/182,645 filed Feb. 18, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,879,773,which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/872,157 filedApr. 29, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,774,446, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/639,968 filed Apr. 29, 2012, each ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

U.S. application Ser. No. 13/872,157 filed Apr. 29, 2013, now U.S. Pat.No. 8,774,446, is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. applicationSer. No. 29/430,245 filed Aug. 23, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. D698,772,which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No.29/417,184 filed Mar. 30, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. D667,823, each ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

U.S. application Ser. No. 13/872,157 filed Apr. 29, 2013, now U.S. Pat.No. 8,774,446, is a continuation of PCT Application No.PCT//US2013/038599 filed Apr. 29, 2013, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/639,968 filed Apr. 29, 2012 and U.S.application Ser. No. 29/430,245 filed Aug. 23, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No.D698,772, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a cable retraction system for use withportable electronic devices, more particularly, the present inventionprovides a retractable storage system incorporating an independent cableretraction system for storing retractable cables and earphones of theportable electronic device.

2. Description of the Related Art

Handheld electronic devices are becoming more and more popular asconsumer goods and are frequently used in performing our dailycommunication needs. Devices like the iPhone™, iPad™, iPod™,Blackberry™, cell phones, mobile video players, KINDLE™ eReaders,Android™ devices are now intimate parts of daily life. This popularityhas created a desire for protective cases well as varieties of choicefor aesthetic freshness that enable these devices with a look ofconsumer-preferred style with modest cost. Additionally, theseprotective cases have become increasingly armored (stronger) to protectagainst unintended breakage.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,648,027, the entire contents of which areenclosed by reference, describes a protective apparatus to accommodate aportable device, such as a cell phone, with a wire-wrap member attachedat the back panel. It does not address the problem of tangledheadphone/earbud cable when it is wound in such a manner. Theheadphone/earbud cable can not only become damaged, but tangles areinadvertently created.

US Patent Pub. No. 2011/0233078, also incorporated herein by reference,describes a holder design for portable devices that also provides astorage compartment for earphones. It uses a spring-loaded type rewinderwhich can subject the headphone/earbud cable to undue pressure. Thespring-loaded rewinder can create drastic, uncontrollable speed of therotating wheel upon release of the spring-loaded mechanism to rewind thecable, thereby damaging and/or shortening the life of the cable. Also,related examples are U.S. Published Application No. 2011/0170732(Parker), U.S. Pat. No. 6,731,956 (Hanna et al.), and U.S. PublishedApplication No. 2010/0279743 (Sim), the contents of all of which areincorporated herein by reference. Each of these devices utilizes aspring-loaded mechanism to retract the headphone/earbud cable. Thesespring-loaded device can create drastic, uncontrollable speed of therotating wheel or spring reel upon release of the spring loadedmechanism to rewind/retract the cable, thereby subjecting the cables toundue pressure, and damaging and/or shortening the life of the cable.

Accordingly, the claimed invention proceeds upon the desirability ofproviding a storage system for handheld electronic device that safelyretracts and stores items.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Proposed is a novel carrier system with built-in retractableearphone/earbud system that accommodates a variety of earphone stylesand is adaptable for a variety of handheld electronic devices aredisclosed.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aneasy to put on carrier case, can be made of molded plastic having awrap-around side walls, a back panel and an open front aperture for ahandheld electronic device to slide into. The back panel being ofmonolithic construction and having an enlarged compartment built at thetop area for inclusion with an earbud station. The earbud stationprovides secure fixed hosting seats for a pair of pullable or ejectableearbuds/earphones to sit into when not being used. Various apertures areconfigured in the wrap-around side walls to allow direct access tovarious buttons on the electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, apair of bounded regions or chambers with related wire channels forcontaining earphone/ear bud cables are configured monolithically anddirectly in the back panel. Earphones/earbuds with their long cablesbeing wrapped into the chambers, and a channel to allow the plug head tobe fixedly held at the earbud station for easily plug in to theheadphone jack of a handheld device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, amiddle panel, or cassette member, is configured similarly with a pair ofchambers and operable wire channels for containing and guidingearphone/earbud cables.

In accordance exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, one of thechambers is fixedly mounted with an exterior antenna/transmitter IC chipthat provides a secondary amplification for a cell phone signal,providing a solution for limited cell phone signal amplification due tospace limitation inside a cell phone (such as an iPhone™ or an iPad™)

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member having a back panel and plurality of sidewalls forming a bounding member operative shaped and sized to bound thehandheld device and enable wrapping around the handheld device. Anenlarged compartment is configured proximate the back panel,intersecting with a top side wall of the housing member. The top sidewall forms an aperture in connecting with the compartment. An accessorystation is mounted inside the compartment and forms aperture structurefor arresting and dispensing an accessory item of the handheld device. Aremovable middle panel is removably mounted inside the housing member,in parallel to the back panel, having a top edge neighboring and belowthe enlarged compartment. One or more storage chambers are structured onthe removable middle panel for storing the accessory item, connectingwith one or more channels wherein the channels leading to the accessorystation.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises at least oneearphone cable with a earbud and a plug head, and at least oneretractable mechanism which is operably mounted inside one of thestorage chamber for automatically retracting a cable for storage. Theearbud is removably secured in said accessory station, the cable beingremovably coiled within a spring-biased spool of said retractablemechanism, and a plug head of said cable being connected to a earphonejack of the handheld device, wherein said earphone is pulled from theaccessory station with the cable extending from said storage chamberwhen in use.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a friction based brakingsystem to reduce a rotational speed of the spring-biased spool duringthe retraction of the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid friction based braking system comprises at least one dampingpad to reduce the rotational speed of the spring-biased spool during theretraction of the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a retraction button tocontrol the retractable mechanism to retract the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retraction button is a spring loaded such that the retractionbutton remains in or returns to a first position unless the retractionbutton is moved and held at a second position to retract the cable tothe storage chamber.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a plug head actuationsystem for operably removing and connecting the plug head of the cableto the earphone of the handheld device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises an accessory button todispense the earbud from the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory button is a spring loaded such that the accessorybutton remains in or returns to a first position unless the accessorybutton is moved and held at a second position to dispense the earbudfrom the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a pair of earphones, eachconnected to a separate cable, and two retractable mechanism. Eachretractable mechanism is mounted inside its respective storage chamberfor automatically retracting is respective cable. Each retractablemechanism is independently controlled such that each cable isindependently retractable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a first and secondretraction buttons to independently control the respective retractablemechanism.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,each aforesaid retraction button is a spring loaded such that eachretraction button remains in or returns to a first position unless eachretraction button is moved and held at a second position to retract therespective cable to the respective storage chamber.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a headphone cable with anaudio plug and a headphone plug, and a retractable mechanism which isoperably mounted inside a storage chamber for automatically retractingthe headphone cable for storage. The headphone plug is removably securedin the accessory station. The headphone cable is removably coiled withina spring-biased spool of the retractable mechanism. The audio plug headis connected to a earphone jack of the handheld device. The headphoneplug is pulled from the accessory station with the cable extending fromthe storage chamber for use with a headphone.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a retraction button tocontrol the retractable mechanism to retract said headphone cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a pair of earphones, eachconnected to a separate magnetized cable. Each magnetized cable ismagnetically attracted to each other to form a single cable which can beremovably coiled within the same spring-biased spool of the retractablemechanism. The earphone is pulled from the accessory station with thesingle cable extending from the storage chamber and peelable into twoseparate cables when in use.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory item is at least one of the following: a lip balm, alipstick, a cigarette or a cigar. The aforesaid retractable storagesystem further comprises an accessory button to dispense the accessoryitem from the storage chamber through the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises at least one batterymounted inside a storage chamber for charging at least an accessory itemor the handheld device. The accessory station is a charging stationwhich is electrically connected to the battery to charge the accessoryitem stored within the charging station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory item is a wireless earbuds or e-cigarettes. Theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises an accessorybutton to dispense the accessory item from the charging station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory station comprises a station adapter configured withelastic material to adjust the aperture size of the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a plurality of coloredLEDs to display a logo, advertisement or aesthetically pleasing patternson the back panel of the housing member. The handheld electronic deviceis operably connected to the LEDs to control and change the patterns,logo or advertisement displayed by the LEDs.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member, at least one cable with a plug head and anend piece, and at least one retractable mechanism to retract and storethe cable. At least one accessory station configured to dispense andstore the end piece of the cable. The retractable mechanism comprises agroove track system to control a rotational movement of the retractablemechanism. The groove track system further comprises a groove trackcomponent to enable and disable the rotational movement of theretractable mechanism. Preferably, the aforesaid groove track componentis at least one ball bearing or at least one pin, rod or latch. The pin,rod or latch can further comprise a pin arm, a pin tip and an axis heador pivot point. The pin arm lies generally above the plane of the groovetrack. The pin tip drops down into the plane of the groove track andinteracts with or rides the groove track. The pin, rod or latch rotatesaround its axis head or pivot point such that the pin tip moves radiallytowards or away from the groove track center while always remainingwithin the groove track. The pin tip functions similar to the ballbearing movement within the ball bearing ball bearing containment area.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a first area, a second areaand a third area. The first area is configured to store a retractablelength of the cable. The second area is configured to store an excessportion of the cable. The third area is configured to store a powerspring. Preferably, the aforesaid the first area and the aforesaidsecond area are coplanar on a single plane with the third area.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises electricalcontacts or slip rings to electrically connect at least two sections ofthe cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid end piece is located in a first section of the cable and theaforesaid plug head is located in a second section of the cable. Theelectrical contacts or slip rings is configured to move or rotate thefirst section of the cable independent of the second section of thecable while maintaining an electrical connection.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid groove track component is activated in response to the cablebeing pulled from the retractable mechanism. Preferably, the cable is aflat cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises a plug headactuation system. The plug actuation system comprises a component tooperably remove or connect the plug head of the cable to a port of thehandheld electronic device. Preferably, the aforesaid end piece is oneof the following accessory items: an earbud, earphone, headphone oraudio plug.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises one or morestorage chambers. Preferably, at least one battery mounted inside one ofthe storage chambers to charge the handheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device, comprisesat least one cable with a plug head and an end piece, at least oneretractable mechanism for retracting and storing the cable, and a plughead actuation system. The plug head actuation system comprises acomponent to operably remove or connect the plug head of the cable to aport of the handheld electronic device. The component is configured todrive the plug head to lift or lower the plug head from a port of thehandheld electronic device. The retractable mechanism comprises a firstarea, a second area and a third area. The first area is configured tostore a retractable length of the cable. The second area is configuredto store an excess portion of the cable. The third area is configured tostore a power spring. Preferably, the conductors within the cable areconstructed in a co-planar, single plane arrangement. The first area andthe second area of the retractable mechanism are coplanar on a singleplane with the third area.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a groove track system tocontrol a rotational movement of the retractable mechanism. The groovetrack system further comprises a groove track component to enable anddisable the rotational movement of the retractable mechanism.Preferably, the groove track component is at least one ball bearing, pinrod or latch. The end piece is one of the following accessory items: anearbud, earphone, headphone or audio plug.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises one or morestorage chamber. Preferably, at least one battery mounted inside one ofthe storage chambers to charge the handheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member, at least one cable with a plug head and anend piece, and at least one retractable mechanism to retract and storethe cable. At least one accessory station configured to dispense andstore the end piece of the cable. The cable comprises at least threeconductors constructed in a generally co-planar, single planearrangement.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid cable is configured to be peelable in at least two sections.Preferably, the cable comprises a reinforcing element to increase atensile strength of the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid cable comprises a microphone. The microphone further comprisesa housing with a control button configured to operate at least one ofthe following functions of the handheld electronic device: playing,pausing, forwarding, rewinding, skipping, volume controlling and callanswering.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises a plug headactuation system comprising a component to operably remove or connectthe plug head of the cable to a port of the handheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a first area, a second areaand a third area. The first area is configured store the retractablelength of the cable. The second area is configured to store an excessportion of the cable. The third area is configured to store a powerspring. Preferably, the first area and second area of the retractablemechanism are coplanar on a single plane with the third area.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a groove track system tocontrol a rotational movement of the retractable mechanism. The groovetrack system further comprises a groove track component to enable anddisable the rotational movement of the retractable mechanism.Preferably, the groove track component is at least one ball bearing.

The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become apparent from the following description read inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like referencenumerals designate the same elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a retractable storage system housing ahandheld device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged partially cut-away view of the upper side of thecompartment area for earphone/earbud station in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable storage systemfor storing earphone cables and a handheld electronic device forassembling together in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the retractable storage systemof FIG. 3, a removable panel for storing earphone cables and a handhelddevice for assembling together in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable storage systemfor storing earphone cables in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view of the retractable storage system ofFIG. 5 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary front view of a retractable store system inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary back view of a retractable storage system inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary right side view of a retractable storage systemin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary left side view of a retractable storage systemin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 11 is an exemplary top side view of a retractable storage system inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 12 is an exemplary bottom side view of a retractable storage systemin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 13A-B are exemplary illustrative views of an operativewedge-actuation system for removing and re-installing an audio jackelement (3.5 mm type or other) from the electronic device in accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 14 is an exemplary illustrative view of an operativelever-actuation system for removing and re-installing an audio jackelement from the electronic device in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 15 is an exemplary illustrative exemplary view of an operativetwist-actuation system for removing and re-installing an audio jackelement from the electronic device in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 16 is a partial section view of the retractable storage system withbattery chambers in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 17 is an exemplary perspective view of the retractable storagesystem for storing, charging and dispensing wireless earbuds inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 18 is an exemplary back view of the retractable storage system witha plurality of colored LEDs in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable mechanism forstoring and retracting a cable in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 20A-B are perspective views of a retractable storage system with aretractable mechanism engaged and disengaged, respectively, forretracting a cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIGS. 21A-B are perspective views of a retractable storage system with aretractable mechanism and a friction based braking system disengaged andengaged, respectively, for controlling the speed of the spring-loadedspool in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable mechanism forstoring and retracting a cable in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable storage systemwith a retractable mechanism for storing and retracting earphone cablein accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 24A-B are exploded perspective view of the retractable mechanismfor storing and housing earphone cables with a retraction button tocontrol the retraction mechanism and an accessory button to dispense apair of earbuds from an accessory station in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 25A-B are back view and perspective view of a retractable storagesystem for storing, charging and dispensing e-cigarette in accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 26A-B are back view and perspective view of a retractable storagesystem for storing and dispensing a headphone plug/cable for use with astandard headphone in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the cable retractor in accordance withan exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 28A-B are exploded top and bottom perspective views of the cableretractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 29A is an exploded perspective view of the reel of the cableretractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 29B is a perspective view of the reel of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 30 is a top view of the inside of the reel of the cable retractorwithout the cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 31 is a top view of the inside of the reel of the cable retractorwith the cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 32 is an exploded side perspective view of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of the bottom housing of the cableretractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 34 is a side perspective views of the bottom of the reel and thebottom housing of the cable retractor in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 35 is an exploded front side perspective view of the retractablestorage system incorporating the cable retractor and the portableelectronic device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 36 is an exploded rear side perspective view of the retractablestorage system incorporating the cable retractor in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 37 is a view of the peelable/splitable cable in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 38 is a view of the microphone housing of the peelable/splitablecable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIGS. 39A-B are views of the peelable/splitable cable with the cabley-split reinforcing component in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of the cable conductors of thepeelable/splitable cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention;

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of the cable conductors of thepeelable/splitable cable with the cable tensile strength component inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 42A-D are views of the relative rotational movements of the ballbearing and the groove track of the cable retractor in accordance withan exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 43A-F are views of the relative rotational movements of the ballbearing and the groove track during various operational modes of thecable retractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 44 is a view of the groove track of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 45 is a view of the second face of the reel of the cable retractorwith the contacts in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIGS. 45A-B are exploded views of the electrical contacts on the secondface of the reel of the cable retractor with the contacts in accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the bottom housing of the cableretractor with the slip rings in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIGS. 47A-B are views of the reel of the cable retractor in accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 48 is a view of the cable channel or cutout of the cable retractorin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 49A-B are views of a cable guide wall of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 50A-B are views of a post catcher the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 51A-B are views of the spring housing of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 52A-B are views of the panel and back panel of a retractablestorage system housing in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 53A is an exploded view of a groove track component of the cableretractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 53B is a view of the groove track and the groove track component ofthe cable retractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention; and

FIG. 54 is a view of the cable retractor in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the claimedinvention. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals areused in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or likeparts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not toprecise scale. For purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional(up/down, etc.) or motional (forward/back, etc.) terms may be used withrespect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should notbe construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner.

It will be understood that the phrases earbud and earphone, singularlyor in plural form, may be used interchangeably and without limitation,such that earbud(s) or an earphone(s) system or element can beunderstood to operate in accordance with this inventive disclosure.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figuresillustrate the general manner of construction, and description anddetails of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the invention.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in thedescription and the claims, if any, may be used for distinguishingbetween similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particularsequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the termsso used are interchangeable. It is also understood, that the phrasesembodiment or version may be used interchangeably and without unduelimitation. There is no restriction such that an embodiment is more orless restrictive or definitive than a version of the present invention.Furthermore, the terms “comprise,” “consisting of”, “include,” “have,”and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusiveinclusions, such that a process, method, article, apparatus, orcomposition that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limitedto those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listedor inherent to such process, method, article, apparatus, or composition.

It is contemplated and intended that the operative embodiments orversions of the claimed invention may be readily modified to anysuitable handheld devices of any size that provides an audio output orinterconnection system and thus may take earbud/earphone jacks; forclarity reason, the examples are given based on IPOD™ or IPHONE™ butwill be understood to apply to any hand-held device, cell phone, smartphone, computer, laptop, tablet, ereader or otherwise withoutlimitations. The case shapes may be molded with metal, rubber, plastic,or of any other formable material or combination of materials havingvariable module(s) of elasticity. Thus a rigid plastic bottom may beco-molded with a more flexible plastic side wall, and a slick-slipperysided guide channel portions. A variety of colors and material patternsmay be used for styles and fashions.

In reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, handheld electronic device system 110,for example, an IPOD™/IPHONE™ is contained inside the housing 111 ofcarrier case 100. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, housing 111 is made of a thin layer of plastic,leather material, rubber or other moldable and flexible durable andlight material, provides a protective layer for device 110 fromscratching and other damages. Housing 111 is built in variety of shapesand sizes to tightly match the various designs of handheld devices andis not limited to the shapes shown. For example, it can be rectangularand with sufficient thickness to match an iPHONE™, or it can be squareto match a KINDLE™ eReader. It can also provide a personalized andcustomized pattern or color for a user to have a feel of fashion orpersonal decoration. Various apertures 103, 113 on the side wall or topside of the case 100 can be configured to accommodate access to variousbuttons of the electronic device 110, such as power button 120, volumecontrol button 114, and ports, such as USB port.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,carrier case 100 does not have a front panel, allowing full directaccess to the front screen 122 of device 110. Especially for touchscreen devices, this front opening is functionally convenient, yetelegant in style. The edge of side walls of housing 111 is slightlycurved as a retaining lip to increase the holding grip on device 110.Alternatively, the side walls of housing 111 is a rubberized surface toincrease the holding grip on device 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetop area 400 of case 100 covering the earphone jack 112 area isconfigured with a slightly burgeon compartment or bounded region 125 formounting earphone/earbud station 115 (FIGS. 3 and 4). In accordance withan aspect of the claimed invention, earphone or earbud station 115 cancomprise one aperture or two cylindrical apertures, sized to hold a pairof earphones 117, 119 (e.g., a wireless earphones or earbuds) withfriction, but may be monolithically formed with case 100 (not separate)and may be also co-continuous (not separate openings). Alternatively,the earphone stations 107, 109 can comprise one opening to receive apair of earbuds or earphones 117, 119. The material of earbud station115 may be made of either plastic or an elastomeric or the combinationof materials for elasticity. Adaptor rings may be provided (shown butnot numbered) for adjusting a general opening to a reduced size forperfect fitting of a particular earbud to the station 115. Earbudconnecting cables 121, 123 are contained inside the carrier case housing111 through apertures of earphone station 115 and reel in and out duringuse.

In reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, carrier case 100 includes a middlecassette or plug-in panel 300 that is configured with one, two or morechambers 127, 129 for containing earphone/earbud cables 121,123. Inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,retractable mechanisms 127A, 129A, such as spring reels or spools 610can be replaceably inserted into the chambers 127, 129 for automaticretraction of the earphone cables 121, 123 after use. The retractionmechanism is individually indexable (retraction, partial retraction,hold in position etc.) and each retraction mechanism is individuallyoperable (one ear bud or both). An additional exterior antennareceiver/transmitter chip (not shown) may also be fixedly mounted insidethe chambers, or proximate to the shell and body to enhance a cell phonesignal receiving/sending capacity. Alternatively, the pair of earphones117, 119 can be connected to a single earphone cable, thereby requiringonly one chamber 127 for containing a single earphone/earbud cable 121and only one retractable mechanism 127A for automatic retraction of theearphone cable 121 after use.

Earphone/earbud cables 121, 123 are guided with channels to therespective chambers 127, 129 where the rest of the cable length iscoiled inside the chambers 127, 129. Earphone/earbud plug head 105 isguided by one of the channels to the top to be in the proximity of anearphone jack of handheld device 110. Earphone/earbud earplugs orearpieces 117, 119 are housed in or fit into earphone station 115, whenin use, optionally one or both, can be pulled from the station 115, andretracted back to the station 115 after use using a continuous pull or aratchet as is known in the electrical-power-cord-retraction-art.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,panel 300 is configured to be easily assembled with and into theexterior housing 111 and held by friction or a slight protrusionconfigured inside housing 111, and may be optionally sonically fixed(welded) or otherwise fixed in place. Similarly, the earbud station 201can be assembled removably or in a fixed manner. As exemplary shown inFIG. 23, the carrier case 200 comprises a hinged cover 203 to open andclose the aperture of the earbud station 201 or charging station 510.

As will be understood by those of skill in the art, the outer housingthickness of 111 may also be formed with openings or transparentportions to show a brand region on the electronic device. Similarly,such openings or portions may be provided to receive retractionmechanisms 127A, 129A as a stylized configuration. In accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, as shown in FIG. 18, thecarrier case 200 comprises multiple colored light emitting diodes (LEDs)555 to display a logo, advertisement or aesthetically pleasing patternson the back of the case. Preferably, the LED lights 555 are connected toelectronic device via wire or wirelessly such that the electronic devicecan control and change the patterns, logo or advertisement displayed bythe LEDs 555.

The back panel of housing 111 is configured with a slightly enlargedbounding region or compartment 125 for mounting earphone/earbud station115. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention, as shown in FIG. 5, earbud/earphone station 201 is structuredto be an elongated tubular structure with two or more apertures 203, 205shaped to match an earplug head and can be removably positioned or canbe fixed in place. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, the station holder 201 can be monolithically moldedinto the backing of the case 100, 200. The apertures of the earbudstation 201 can be configured slightly bigger than most of the earplugheads but puffed with rubber like material, to able to fit an 0-ring orother adaptive structures for elasticity and tight fitness. Panel 300may be replaced with other types of configurations suitable for theparticular electronic device. It is appreciated that the panel 300 caninclude openings or regions that allow use of any electronic-devicecamera/video, aperture, or brand indicia.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thechamber structure and channels can be monolithically, directly molded onthe middle cassette or plug-in panel 300 or back panel of housing 211.In reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the handheld device carrier case 200comprises a housing 211 and one or more storage chambers 605 toremovably house one or more accessories, such as earbud cables, wirelessearbuds, headphone cables, e-cigarettes, cigars, cigarettes, lipsticks,lip balms, and like. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, the chambers 605 can house one or more retractablemechanism 600. Chamber structure 605 with one or more guiding channels213, 215, 216 can be configured on the interior side of the back panelof housing 211 or on the plug-in panel 300. Earphone station 201can bemounted at the top ends of the channels 213, 215. Channel 216 isconfigured for holding earphone plug head 225 to be plug into theearphone jack of a handheld device 110. Channels 213, 215 guide theearphone cables 229, 231 when they are pulled out for use and retractedinto the respective retracting mechanism 600 for storage.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aspring box can be mounted inside each retractable mechanism 600 forautomatic and independent retraction of the cables 229, 231 after use.As exemplary shown in FIG. 19, the retractable mechanism 600 comprises aspool 610 to store the cable, a motor spring 620 and a spool contactdisc 630 to electrically connect the cables 231, 229 to an audio jackelement or earphone plug 225 which connects to the handheld electronicdevice 110. To retract the cables 231, 229, the retractable mechanism600 releases the motor spring 620 which rotates the spool 610 to roll orwrap the cables onto the spool. One or both cables 231, 229 are unwoundfrom its respective spring-biased spool 610 by the user and the cablesare wound on the spring biased spool 610 by the retractable mechanism600 after use. Alternatively, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 22-23, theretractable mechanism 600 can comprise a washer 625 that abuts againstthe back panel of the housing 211, the motor spring 620, the spool 610,a spool contact disc 630 fasted or connected onto the spool 610 and acontact film 635, preferably a printed circuit board (PCB), which isfixed to the plug-in panel 300. The contacts on the spool contact disc630 permits the cables 231, 229 on the rotating spool 610 to remain inelectrical connection with the contact film 635. The contact film iselectrically connected to the plug head 225.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theautomatic retraction of the cables 229, 231 can be triggered by a gentlepull of the respective cable 229, 231 or by engaging a respectiveretraction or spool button 650, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 20 and 21.The retraction button 650 can be a push on/off button or a slidableretraction button moveable to the first and second positions. Eachretracting mechanism 600 can be independently operated and controlled bythe respective retraction button 650. As exemplary shown in FIG. 20A,the slidable retraction button 650 is moved to the second position (ormoved towards the top end of the case) to engage the retractablemechanism 600 to retract the cables. As exemplary shown in FIG. 20B, theslidable retraction button 650 is moved to the first position (or movedtowards the bottom end of the case) to prevent the retractable mechanism600 from retracting the cables into the spool 610 but permitting theuser to pull out more cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIGS. 21A-B, the slidable retraction button 650 isspring loaded such that it remains in the first position until theretraction button 650 is moved to second position to retract the cables229, 231 and returns automatically to the first position when theretraction button 650 is released. That is, the retraction button 650must be held in the second position to retract the cables 229, 231,otherwise the retraction button 650 returns to the first position. Theuser moves the retraction button 600 to the second or “retract” positionby sliding the button towards the bottom end of the case and holds theretraction button 650 to retract the respective cables 229, 231 ontotheir respective spool or reel 610, and the release of the retractionbutton 650 stops or disengages the retractable mechanism 600. That is,two cables 229, 231 can be pulled independently from its respectivespool 610 to pull out a different cable length, e.g., 1 foot of cable231 is pulled out and 2 foot of cable 229 is pulled out. Additionally,for example, cable 231 can be retracted independent of cable 229, suchthat the earbud 221 connected to cable 231 is completely retracted intothe earphone/earbud station 201 while the earbud 223 connected to cable229 remains outside of the earphone/earbud station 201.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theearbuds 221 and 223 can be attached to the same cable, thereby requiringonly one retracting mechanism 600, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 20A-B and24A-B. The earbuds 221, 223 docketed or stored in the earbud station 201when not in use can be retrieved or ejected from the earbud station 201.In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecarrier case 200 comprises an accessory button 655 to slide out theearbuds 221, 223 from the earbud station 201, as exemplary shown inFIGS. 24A-B. The accessory button 655 is moved towards the earbudstation 201 to slide out the earbuds 221, 223 and is moved away from theearbud station 201 to slide the earbuds 221, 223 into the earbud station201. Alternatively, the accessory button 655 can be spring loaded,similar to the retraction button 650, so that the accessory button 655remains in or returns to the first position (as exemplary shown in FIG.24A) unless the accessory button 655 is moved to and held at the secondposition to eject or slide out the earbuds 221, 223 from the earbudstation 201 (as exemplary shown in FIG. 24B).

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIGS. 21A-21B, each retractable mechanism 600comprises a friction based braking system 640 to control and reduce thespeed of the spring reel or spool 610 when the cables 229, 231 are beingretracted into the retractable mechanism 600. The motor spring 620 ofthe spring-loaded retractable mechanism 600 can rotate the spring reelor spool 610 at drastic, uncontrollable speed upon release of thespring-loaded mechanism 600 to retract the cable, thereby potentiallystretching or even damaging the cables 229, 231. In accordance with anaspect of the claimed invention, the friction based braking system 640comprises one or more damping pads 660 to slow down the spring reel orspool 610. For example, when the spring-loaded retractable mechanism 600is in retraction mode (the retraction button 650 is in the second orretract position, as exemplary shown in FIG. 21B), the damping pads 660are engaged to apply pressure to the spool 610 to slow its rotationalspeed.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIGS. 26A-B, the storage chamber 501, 605 andretraction mechanism 600 retracts and stores the headphone plug/cable550 for use with a standard headphone (not shown). The retractablemechanism 600, preferably comprising the friction based braking system640, automatically retracts the headphone plug/cable 550 after use.Similar to the earbud cables 229, 231, the automatic retraction of theheadphone plug/cable 550 can be triggered by a gentle pull on the cable550 or by engaging the retraction button 650. The headphone plug 550docketed or stored in the earbud station 201 when not in use can beretrieved or ejected from the earbud station 201. Similar to the earbuds221, 223, the station 201 is configured to accommodate the headphoneplug 550 and the accessory button 655 slides the headphone plug 550 inand out of the station 201, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 26A-B. Theaccessory button 655 is moved towards the station 201 to slide out theheadphone plug 550 and is moved away from the station 201 to slide theheadphone plug 550 into the station 201. Alternatively, the accessorybutton 655 can be spring loaded such that the accessory button 655remains in or returns to the first or “rest” position until theaccessory button 655 is moved to second position to eject or slide outthe headphone plug 550 from the station 201. The headphone plug 550 canbe used with the headphone by inserting the pulled out headphone plug550 into an audio port on the headphone or headset (not shown).

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecables 231, 229 can be magnetized such that two cables 231, 229 act as asingle cable. A magnetic compound powder can be added to the moltenrubber/plastic coating to the first cable 231 and a ferrous metal powdercan be added to the molten rubber/plastic coating the second cable 229.Once cured and molded, these two separable cables 231, 229 aremagnetically attracted to each other to form a single cable but allowingthe user to peal apart into two cables. Depending on the application ofthe claimed invention, the magnetized cables 231, 229 can operate with adual retractable mechanism 600 or a single retractable mechanism 600. Inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetwo magnetized cables 231, 229 are independently retracted by therespective dual retractable mechanism 600. Channels 213, 215 separatesthe two magnetized cables 231, 229 and guide the two magnetized cables231, 229 when they are pulled out and retracted into the respective dualretractable mechanism 600. When two earbuds 221, 223 attached to the twomagnetized cables 231, 229 are pulled out from the earphone station 201,the two magnetized cables 231, 229 are magnetically attracted to eachother to form a single cable and the user can peel apart a section ofthe two magnetized cables 231, 229 to separate the earbuds 221, 223.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetwo magnetized cables 231, 229 are magnetically attached to form asingle cable and retracted into the same retractable mechanism. That is,one of the channel 213, 215 guides both magnetized cables 231, 229 whenthey are pulled out and retracted into the same retractable mechanism600. When two earbuds 221, 223 attached to the two magnetized cables231, 229 are pulled out, the user can separate the two magneticallyattached cables 231, 229 into two separate cables 231, 229 of desiredlength.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 16-17, the back panel of carrier case 200 or one side ofthe plug-in panel 300 can comprise one or more storage chambers 501 tohouse one or more batteries 500 instead of the retractable mechanisms600. Although, the storage chambers 501 are shown as circular in FIG.16, it is appreciated that the storage chamber 501 can be shaped tohouse a different shaped battery 500, such as a square or rectangularshaped battery 500. The battery 500 is operable to extend the batterylife of the electronic device and/or charge the wireless earbuds 520,preferably Bluetooth™ earbuds 520, when it is placed in the chargingstation 510. The wireless earbuds 520 click in and out of the chargingstation 510. The wireless earbuds 520 communicates wirelessly, such asvia Bluetooth, with the electronic device 110. Preferably, the accessorybutton 655 can be used to dispense or pushed out the wireless earbuds520 from the charging station 510, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 24A-Bwith wired earbuds 221, 223. The battery chambers 501 are in electricalconnection with the electronic device and the charging station 510. Inaccordance with an aspect of the claimed invention, the guides 213, 215houses wires connecting the earbud station 510 and guide 216 can be usedto house wires connecting the battery 500 to the electronic device.Accordingly, the claimed system provides protection, storage and batterymanagement to wireless Bluetooth earphones and smartphones. Although twostorage chambers 501 and two batteries 500 are shown in FIG. 16, it isappreciated that the carrier case 200 can comprise one storage chamber501 to house one battery 500.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIG. 25A-B, the back panel of carrier case 200 or oneside of the plug-in panel 300 can be monolithically, directly moldedwith chambers and/or channels to house one or more accessories 530, suchas lipsticks, lip protection balm, cigarettes, cigars or electroniccigarettes (or e-cigarettes). The ejection button 655 can be used toretrieve, push out or eject an accessory from the storage chambers 501.It is appreciated that although the storage chamber 501 is illustratedas being circular in FIG. 16, it can be molded into any shape toaccommodate different shaped accessories, such as a tubular shapedstorage chamber to store e-cigarette, cigar, cigarette, lip balm orlipstick, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 25A-B. As with the wirelessearbuds 520, the charging station 510 charges the e-cigarette 530 usingthe internal battery 500 when it is stored in the storage chamber 501and can be ejected from the storage chamber 501 by the retraction button650, as exemplary shown in FIG. 25B.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, anexterior antenna transmitter/receiver maybe fixedly mounted into thechamber structures 605 to enhance the signal reception of the handheldelectronic device 110, such as a cellular or WI-FI reception for a cellphone.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 18, the carrier case 200 comprises multiple colored LEDlights 555 to display a logo, advertisement or aesthetically pleasingpatterns on the back of the case. Preferably, the LED lights 555 areconnected to electronic device 110 via wire or wirelessly such that theelectronic device can control and change the patterns, logo oradvertisement displayed by the LED lights 555.

Other features exterior look may be configured as described in FIGS.7-12 for matching a handheld device 110, with sufficient aperturesconfigured on the sides for accessing the buttons of the device. Theseviews are provided for non-limiting illustrative purposes. As will benoted in FIG. 13, the upper lip region is slightly larger to encompassthe particular audio jack (3.5 mm type) in these versions, but shouldjack-access be on the bottom region, the larger region in the case wouldbe optionally positioned to allow insertion and removal appropriate tothe electronic device. Although, FIGS. 7-12 show the carrier case foruse with a cell phone or smart phone, it is appreciated that theinventive carrier case can be applied to any hand held electronicdevice, such as a tablet, e-reader, MP3 device and a remote controldevice for controlling operating an electronic device, such as TVs,blu-ray players, video-streaming players, etc.

Regarding FIGS. 13-15, illustrative exemplary actuation systems 301,302, 303 in accordance with embodiments of the claimed invention areprovided. In actuation system 301 as exemplary shown in FIGS. 13A-B, anaudio jack element or earphone plug (e.g., 105, or 225) can be removedand inserted using a wedge member 310 by the moving or sliding the plugbutton 315 towards the jack element 225 (as exemplary shown in FIG. 13A)to drive wedge 310 under and thus lift the jack element 225 out of thereceiving hole 112 (e.g., an audio port) in the handheld electronicdevice 110. Thereafter, the plug button 315 is moved away from the jackelement 225 (as exemplary shown in FIG. 13B) and the jack element 225 ispushed downwardly into the receiving hold 112 to reinstall the jack fordesired use. In this way, a user can easily (and one-handedly) removeand reinsert the jack element 225 and thus activate and deactivate theearbud system.

As exemplary shown in FIG. 14, a lever member 314 has a projectingportion 315 through a case opening and a fixed position 316 allowingmember 314 to operate as a pivot lever. Lever member 314 is configuredto capture the jack element or earphone plug 105, 225 and control itsmovement relative to the insertion axis, and thus similarly lifting orremoving the earphone plug 105, 225 in direction A from the receivinghole 112 of the electronic device and inserting the earphone plug 105,225 in direction B into the receiving hole 112 of the electronic device.

As exemplary shown in FIG. 15, a pivot member 320 is captively pivotablewithin case 100, 200 to operably secure the jack member or earphone plug105, 225 to the electronic device. The pivot member 320 is operable inpivot motion A to remove earphone plug 105, 225 from the receiving hole112 of the electronic device and operable in pivot motion B to insertthe earphone plug 105, 225 into the receiving hole 112 of the electronicdevice. Such pivoting may be threaded (both pivot and rising/lowering),or may be a pivot-wedge system (pivot-driving-a-wedge for lifting withpress-return) without departing from the scope and spirit of the presentinvention. As will be understood by those of skill in the art, each ofthese alternative and operative mechanisms, or means, areinsertion-removal means and are not limited to the present alternativeillustrations, but instead include all related variations thataccomplish a similar function.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, acable retractor 1000, as shown in FIGS. 27-36, 42A-D, 43A-F and 44-47,can be used with a wide variety of portable electronic devices 110,including but not limited to phones, smart phones, gaming systems,portable media players, and the like.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 27-35, the cable retractor or cable retraction system1000 generally comprises a top housing 1010 and a reel 1030. The reel1030 comprises a first face 1040 and a second face 1050, a bottomhousing 1150, a spring 1220, a cable, and a ball bearing 1240. The cableretractor 1000 is configured to retract a cable 1230 to store the cableand to allow extension of the cable 1230 when the cable is being used.In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retractor 1000 can be removably mounted or coupled to a portableelectronic device 110. Alternatively, the cable retractor 1000 can beremovably incorporated into a protective case 100 for use with theportable electronic device 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thebottom housing 1150 comprises a ball bearing containment area 1170 andthe second face 1050 of the reel 1030 comprises a groove track or ballbearing groove track 1060 which guides the ball bearing 1240. The bottomhousing 1150 and the reel 1030 are cooperatively configured for the reel1030 to rotate relative to the bottom housing 1150 to wind and unwindthe cable 1230. The top housing 1010 and the bottom housing 1150cooperatively define a cavity 1180 in which reel 1030 is positionedtherein, such that the cable 1230 is wound or unwound from the reel 1030so as to be drawn into or out of the cavity 1180. The top housing 1010,the bottom housing 1150 and the reel 1030 are cooperatively sized,generally circular in shape for the reel 1030 to rotate within thecavity 1180. The top housing 1010 can be configured to have an innercircular protrusion 1075 which separates areas 1130 and 1120. The innercircular protrusion 1075 can also secure and encapsulate the spring1220.

In accordance an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, therelative movement, preferably rotational movement, of the groove track1060 with respect to the ball bearing 1240 is described in conjunctionwith FIGS. 42A-D, 43A-F and 44-47. During operation of the cableretractor 1000, the ball bearing 1240 and the groove trace 1060 rotaterelative to each other. For purpose of simplicity, the motion will bedescribed herein as though the ball bearing 1240 is motion while thegroove track 1060 is stationary. In actual operation, as exemplary shownin FIGS. 42A-D, the groove track 1060 rotates while the ball bearing1240 is relatively stationary. The groove track 1060 moves relative tothe ball bearing 1240 which only slides radially. That is, the groovetrack 1060 enables and disables the rotational movement of the cableretractor 1000. As noted herein, the rotational movement of the cableretractor 1000, specifically, the rotational movement between the groovetrack 1060 and the ball bearing 1240, is activated and deactivated inresponse to the cable 1230 being pulled from the cable retractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 44, the groove track 1060 comprises an outer channel 1320,an inner channel 1340 and a lock point 1330. In accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, the various groove trackand ball bearing modes of the cable retractor 1000 are shown in FIGS.43A-F and described in conjunction with FIG. 44. As noted herein, forpurpose of simplicity, the groove track/ball bearing motion will bedescribed herein as though the ball bearing 1240 is motion while thegroove track 1060 is stationary.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retraction operation Mode 1A is illustrated in FIG. 43A with theball bearing 1240 located in the inner channel 1340. In response toretraction of the cable 1230 from the cable retractor 1000 (when theuser pulls the cable 1230 from the cable retractor 1000), the ballbearing 1240 travels in a counter-clockwise direction and the groovetrack 1060 guides the ball bearing 1240 into the outer channel 1320.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retraction operation Mode 1B is illustrated in FIG. 43B with theball bearing 1240 located in the outer channel 1320. The ball bearing1240 moves in a counter-clockwise direction and remains in the outerchannel 1320. The motion of the ball bearing 1240 is unimpeded as thedesired amount of the cable 1230 is retracted from the cable retractor1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retraction operation Mode 2 is illustrated in FIG. 43C. After thedesired amount of the cable 1230 has been retracted from the cableretractor 1000 (when the user stops pulling the cable 1230 from thecable retractor 1000), the force of the spring 1220 causes the ballbearing 1240 to briefly rotate in clockwise direction. In the clockwisedirection, the groove track 1060 guides the ball bearing 1240 out of theouter channel and into the lock point 1330. The cable retractor 1000 isnow locked with the desired amount of the cable 1230 withdrawn orretracted from the cable retractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable storage operation Mode 3A is illustrated in FIG. 43D. When thecable 1230 is ready to be stored or re-spooled onto the reel 1030, theuser retracts the cable 1230 slightly (e.g., a short amount of the cable1230 is retracted) to force the ball bearing 1240 to travel slightly ina counter-clockwise direction, as exemplary shown in FIG. 43D. Thegroove track 1060 guides the ball bearing 1240 into the inner channel1340.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable storage operation Mode 3B is illustrated in FIG. 43E. After shortretraction of the cable 1230 during the cable storage operation Mode 3A,the user releases the cable 1230 and the spring 1220 drives the ballbearing 1240 in a clockwise direction, as exemplary shown in FIG. 43E.The groove track 1060 prevents the ball bearing 1240 from returning tothe lock point 1330.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable storage operation Mode 3C is illustrated in FIG. 43F. The groovetrack 1060 guides the ball bearing 1240 in a clock-wise directionunimpeded within the inner channel 1340, as exemplary shown in FIG. 43F.This relative motion between the ball bearing 1240 and the groove track1060 continues unimpeded as the spring 1220 re-spools and stores thecable 1230 onto the reel 1030.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the clamed invention, thereel 1030 comprises an outer circular protrusion 1090 to define a firstarea 1110, a second area 1120 and a third area 1130. The first area 1110for storing the cable 1230 is positioned radially outward of the outercircular protrusion 1090 and is configured to store the bulk of thecable 1230. That is, the cable 1230 is wound around the outer circularprotrusion 1090 of the reel 1030 for storage within the first or cablestorage area 1110 generally in a single plane. That is, the cable 1230is wound into one or more windings wherein each revolution of the cable1230 generally does not overlap any other revolution of the cable 1230in an axial direction and/or a single plane passes through each entirerevolution of the cable 1230 in the winding.

The second area 1120 of the reel 1030 is positioned between the innercircular protrusion 1075 and the outer circular protrusion 1090. Thesecond area 1120 is configured to store the excess portion of cable1230. An aperture or slot 1100 on the outer circular protrusion 1090 areconfigured such that cable 1230 passes from the first area 1110 to thesecond area 1120, such that cable 1230 is wound radially outward of theouter circular protrusion 1090 in the first area 1110 and wound radiallyoutward of the inner circular protrusion 1095 in the second area 1120.The second area 1120 acts an expansion area to house or store excesscable, thereby permitting the claimed independent cable retractionsystem 1000 to utilize a single seamless cable with no breaks, splicesor cuts. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention, the first and second area 1110, 1120 are generally coplanarwith the third area 1130 for housing the spring 1220. It is appreciatedthat the coplanar relationship between the three areas 1110, 1120. 1130of the reel 1030 advantageously operates to minimize the thickness ofthe cable retractor 1000. As the first area 1110 cable is retracted theexpansion area cable begins to unwind. At a point during the retractionprocess, the second area 1120 cable is completely unwound (i.e., isfully expanded within the expansion chamber) and begins to wrap or windin the opposite direction. This allows the full length of the first area1110 cable to be retracted in or out while the second area 1120 cablemaintains continuity of signal from the fixed plug through the rotatingspool and retractable cable

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, afirst end of the cable 1230 stored in the first area 1110 of the reel1030 exits through a port 1190 cooperatively formed by the top housing1010 and the bottom housing 1150. The first end of the cable 1230 isconfigured to be connected to an end piece, such as a pair of earbuds ora headphone plug. A second end of the cable 1230 exits the second area1120 through an aperture or port 1020 on the top housing 1010. Thesecond end of the cable 1230 is configured to be connected to an audioplug which connects to an audio port of the portable electronic device110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retractor 1000 can further comprise a spring housing 1070configured to encapsulate the spring 1220 and allow the spring to befixed or removable mounted to the cable retractor 1000. The springhousing 1070 can also be configured to mechanically lock or secure ontothe second face 1050 of the reel allowing for easier installation andmaintenance of the spring 1220. The spring housing 1220 can be made frommaterials such as but not limited to: metal, stainless steel or plastic.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetop housing 1010, the bottom housing 1150 and the reel 1030cooperatively define a central axis about which the reel 1030 rotatesand about which the cable 1230 is wound. The bottom housing 1150comprises a central rounded post 1200, which is received by a centralaperture 1140 of the spring housing 1070.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thesecond face 1050 of the reel 1030 and an inner face 1160 of the bottomhousing 1150 are configured for the second face 1050 of the reel 1030 toslide or rotate against the generally planar inner face 1160 of thebottom housing 1150.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theinner circular protrusion 1075 is configured to define the third area1130 radially inward thereof for storing the spring 1220. The spring1220 (e.g., a coiled clock or power spring) is positioned with the thirdarea 1130 and is configured to cause rotation of the reel 1030 relativeto the bottom housing 1150. An inner end of the spring 1220 is coupledto the central post 1200 of the bottom housing 1150 and an outer end ofthe spring 1220 is coupled to the reel 1030. Preferably, the centralpost 1200 has a slot 1210 for receiving the inner end of the spring1220. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention, the spring housing 1070 has one or more apertures or cutouts1080 for receiving the outer end of the spring 1220. When the reel 1030is rotated relative to the bottom housing member 1150, the spring 1220applies a counter-torque to the reel 1030 to cause rotation thereof.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thereel 1030 is configured to couple to the cable 1230, such that rotationof the reel 1030 causes the cable 1230 to be drawn into the first area1110 of the reel 1030 to be wound around the central axis of rotation asdefined by the central post 1200. In accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention, the cable 1230 is coupled to thereel 1030 by way of the aperture 1100 in the outer circular protrusion1090, preferably a guided aperture or an aperture with a coupling totightly hold the cable 1230 placed therein.

Turning now to FIGS. 37, 39A-B, there is illustrated apeelable/splitable cable 1300 in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention. The claimed peelable/splitable cable 1300allows for a low profile cable design which contributes to the low orthin profile of the cable retractor 1000. It is appreciated that withoutthe claimed peelable/splitable cable, the cable for used in the cableretractor 1000 would require a large “y-split” feature instead of thecable y-split reinforcing component 1280, as shown in FIG. 39A.

As shown in FIGS. 39B-41, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention, the cable conductors 1290 are constructedco-planar or generally co-planar on a single plane within the cablejacket material 1235, thereby allowing a low profile cable design whichallows for a low profile of the overall system, i.e., the cableretractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 41, the cable reinforcing component or cable tensilestrength component 1310 adds tensile strength to the cable 1230 andminimizes the stretching and breaking of the cable 1230.

As shown in FIGS. 37-38, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention, the cable 1230 comprises a microphone housing1260 with a microphone 1250. The microphone 1250 adds interactivefunctionality to the cable 1230 and the media control button 1270provides operational control over music, videos, volume, calls as wellas control over various other software element of the portableelectronic device 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 45, 45A, 45B and 46, the cable retractor 1000 compriseselectrical contacts or slips rings 1350. The electrical contacts 1350and/or the slip rings 1360 can be arranged/mounted around the centralround post or arbor 1200, on the spool 610, the reel 1030, on the tophousing or cover 1010,or the bottom housing or cover 1150 of the cableretractor 1000. It is appreciated that the electrical contacts 1350and/or the slip rings 1360 can be located anywhere on the housing of thecable retractor 1000. Also, it is appreciated that the electricalcontacts 1350 and/or slip rings can be mounted in multiple areas of thecable retractor 1000, and in multiple shapes and sizes.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 45, 45A, 45B and 46, the electrical contacts 1350 on thesecond face 1050 of the reel 1030 is in electrical connection with theslip rings 1360 on the bottom housing 1150 of the cable retractor 1000to transmit electrical signal between each other. This enables the cableretractor 1000 utilize a reel 1030 with just one area to store the cable1230, thereby minimizing the overall size of the cable retractor 1000.In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theelectrical contacts 1350 on the reel 1030 and the slip rings 1360 on thebottom housing 1150 electrically connects the two sections of the cable1230 to an audio jack element or earphone plug 225, which connects tothe portable or handheld electronic device 110. The first section of thecable 1230 resides with or within the cable retractor 1000 and thesecond section of the cable 1230 resides outside the cable retractor1000 but within the protective housing 100. The electrical contacts 1350and/or the slip rings 1360 permits the first section of the cable 1230within the cable retractor 1000 to remain in electrical connection withsecond section of the cable 1230 within the protective case 100, therebyproviding electrical connection from the end piece (e.g., earphones orear buds 117, 119) to the plug head 225 and to the handheld electronicdevice 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theend piece (e.g., earphones or ear buds 117, 119) is located in a firstsection of the cable 1230 and the plug head 225 is located in a secondsection of the cable 1230. The electrical contacts 1350 and/or the sliprings 1360 moves or rotate the first section of the cable 1230independent of the second section of the cable 1230 while maintaining anelectrical connection between the two sections of the cable 1230.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 47A and 47B, the reel 1030 can further comprise at leastone first reel mating feature 1370 located on first face 1040 of thereel 1030 and at least one second reel mating feature 1380 locatedsecond face 1050 of the reel 1030. The first reel mating feature 1370and second reel mating feature 1380 can mechanically snap or locktogether thereby bonding or joining the on first face 1040 of the reel1030 with the second face 1050 of the reel 1030 and allows for easierand faster assembly of the cable retractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 48, the top housing 1010 can further comprise at least onecable channel or cutout 1390 which allows for the cable to be guided toor away from the cable retractor 1000. The cable channel or cut-out 1390can also allow for a more low profile design by allowing the cable 1230to sit counter sunk and generally even with the top housing 1010 therebyreducing thickness and deflection. The cable channel or cut-out 1390 canalso aid in the assembly process by acting as a cable slot or guideduring installation. The top housing 1010 and bottom housing 1150 canalso comprise retractor screw ports, openings or bosses 1400 to allowthe cable retractor 1000 be secured to the housing 111 or panel 300 oranywhere on the system. The top housing 1010 and bottom housing 1150 canalso comprise a housing mating feature 1410 to allow for a mechanicallock or bond between the top housing 1010 and bottom housing 1150thereby encapsulating or securing the entire cable retractor 1000together. The housing mating feature 1410 also provides for easierassembly by allowing the cable retractor 1000 act as a one piecesub-assembly and fro easier installation into the housing 111 or panel300 or anywhere on the entire device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 49A and 49B, the cable retractor 1000 can furthercomprise at least one cable guide wall 1420 which guides and securelydirects the cable 1230 out or into the cable retractor 1000. The cableguide wall 1420 can be configured or mounted on the top housing 1010 andguide the cable 1230 out of the second area 1120 and towards a port ofthe electronic device 110. The cable retractor 1000 can also comprise arounded edge 1430 to allow the cable 1230 to wrap around a rounded formor structure throughout movement and retraction cycles. The roundedgeometry 1430 prevents the cable 1230 from folding over on itself andallows the cable 1230 to maintain curvature thereby minimizing andpreventing damage to the cable 1230 throughout movement and retractioncycles. The rounded geometry 1430 can be configured or mounted on thecable guide wall 1420 or anywhere else on the cable retractor 1000. Therounded geometry 1430 reduces stress on the cable wrapped around it bysetting a lower limit on the radius around which the cable must bend andwrap, and thereby increases the usable life and number of cycles priorto damage of said cable 1230.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 50A-B, the cable retractor 1000 can further comprise apost catcher 1440 which is configured to lock, secure or receive thecentral rounded post 1200 (see FIG. 28B). The post catcher 1440 addsstrength to the central rounded post 1200 and prevents breakage ortwisting to the central rounded post 1200 under high torque conditionscaused by the spring 1220 (see FIG. 29A). The post catcher 1440 can beconfigured on the bottom housing 1150, housing 111, panel 300 oranywhere on the system. The cable retractor 1000 can also comprise agroove track control screw 1450 used to control the pressure, gap orspacing within the groove track system and ensures proper operation ofthe groove track system under all use conditions. The groove trackcontrol screw 1450 can be mounted onto the cable retractor via a groovetrack control screw port 1460 located on the bottom housing 1150 and canengage or anchor into the central rounded post 1200. The groove trackcontrol screw 1450 and groove track control screw port 1460 can also bemounted on the housing 111, panel 300 or anywhere on the system.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 51A-B, the spring housing 1070 can further comprise atleast one spring housing mating feature 1470 allowing the spring housing1070 be fixed or removably secured the to the cable retractor 1000. Thespring housing mating feature 1470 can mechanically snap or lock ontothe second face 1050 of the reel 1030 or cable retractor 1000 via springhousing mating feature locks 1480 which can be configured or mounted onthe second face 1050 of the reel 1030 or cable retractor 1000. Thespring housing 1070 can further comprise a spring housing port oropening 1590 to allow clearance for the central rounded post 1200 duringassembly and use.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 52A-B, it is appreciated that the back panel of housing211 can contain all the features of the top housing 1010 and the panel300 can contain all the feature of the bottom housing 1180 therebyreducing components and streamlining the overall design and profile.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 53A-B, the cable retractor 1000 comprises a groove tracksystem to control a rotational movement of the cable retractor 1000. Thegroove track system further comprises a groove track component to enableand disable the rotational movement of the retractable mechanism.Preferably, the groove track component is at least one ball bearing orat least one pin, rod or latch 1550. The pin, rod or latch 1550 canfurther comprise a pin arm 1560, a pin tip 1570 and an axis head orpivot point 1580. The pin arm 1560 lies generally above the plane of thegroove track. The pin tip 1570 drops down into the plane of the groovetrack and interacts with or rides the groove track. The pin, rod orlatch 1550 rotates around its axis head or pivot point 1580 such thatthe pin tip 1570 moves radially towards or away from the groove trackcenter while always remaining within the groove track. The pin tip 1570functions similar to the ball bearing 1240 movement within the ballbearing ball bearing containment area 1170.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 54, it is appreciated that the cable retractor 1000 andits components can be configured in multiple variations. One suchvariation allows for the spring 1220 to be mounted externally or outsideof a main reel assembly 1490 and rotate on a second central rounded post1500 and transfer its torque or power to the main reel assembly 1490 viaa gear interface 1510. The main reel assembly 1490 can further comprisea main reel assembly first area 1520 that acts an expansion area tohouse or store excess cable, thereby permitting the main reel assembly1490 to utilize a single seamless cable with no breaks, splices or cuts.The main reel assembly 1490 can further comprise a main reel assemblysecond area 1530 used to store the retractable length of cable andfurther comprise a first central rounded post 1540 which the main reelassembly 1490 rotates on. The gear interface 1510 can be configured onthe perimeter of a spring housing 1070 to which contains the spring1220. The gear interface 1510 can also be configured on the perimeter ofthe main reel assembly 1490 thereby allowing the main reel assembly 1490to receive the power and torque of the spring 1220 via the gearinterface contact with the spring housing 1070. The gear interface 1510can utilize many materials such as metal, rubber, TPE or TPU for moreeffective bond and multiple types of interlocking geometries to achievemore effective rotation. This retractor configuration allows for alarger expansion chamber area and/or primary cable chamber and reducesspring torque requirements.

In the claims, means- or step-plus-function clauses are intended tocover the structures described or suggested herein as performing therecited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalentstructures. Thus, for example, although a nail, a screw, and a bolt maynot be structural equivalents in that a nail relies on friction betweena wooden part and a cylindrical surface, a screw's helical surfacepositively engages the wooden part, and a bolt's head and nut compressopposite sides of a wooden part, in the environment of fastening woodenparts, a nail, a screw, and a bolt may be readily understood by thoseskilled in the art as equivalent structures.

Having described at least one of the embodiments of the claimedinvention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will beapparent to those skills that the invention is not limited to thoseprecise embodiments, and that various modifications and variations canbe made in the presently disclosed system without departing from thescope or spirit of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the presentdisclosure cover modifications and variations of this disclosureprovided they come within the scope of the appended claims and theirequivalents.

1-30. (canceled)
 31. A storage system comprising: a protective housingmember configured to mate with a handheld electronic device; theprotective housing member comprising at least one accessory station; theaccessory station is configured to form between a surface of theprotective housing member and a surface of at least one accessory itemof the handheld electronic device; wherein the protective housing membercomprises at least one of the following: a wireless transmitter and anIC chip; and wherein the wireless transmitter is configured tofacilitate a wireless connection between wireless components of thehandheld electronic device and the protective housing member.
 32. Thestorage system of claim 31, wherein the protective housing membercomprises one or more storage chambers configured to store and protectat least one of the following components: at least one power componentand an integrated circuit.
 33. The storage system of claim 32, whereinsaid at least one power component is configured to charge at least oneof the handheld electronic device and said at least one accessory item.34. The storage system of claim 31, wherein the accessory station is acharging station configured to charge said at least one accessory item.35. The storage system of claim 34, wherein the charging station ispowered by component of said protective housing member or by a componentof the handheld electronic device.
 36. The storage system of claim 31,wherein a wireless signal is transferred to said at least one accessoryitem when said at least one accessory item is proximate to saidaccessory station.
 37. The storage system of claim 32, wherein said ormore one storage chambers is formed between a removable panel and theprotective housing member.
 38. The storage system of claim 31, whereinthe IC chip is configured to control transmission of at least one ofelectrical power and data signals among the protective housing, thehandheld electronic device and said at least one accessory item.